19-09 NTNN 1-48 web by Neighborhood News

Volume 17 Issue 19

Inside: Kennedy BBQ Now Open In Heritage Isles! See page 38!

September 18, 2009

The Direct-Mail Newspaper Serving New Tampa & Wesley Chapel Since 1993! THIS INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER IS DIRECTLY MAILED TO: NEW TAMPA: Arbor Greene • Cory Lake Isles • Cross Creek • Grand Hampton • Heritage Isles • Hunter’s Green • Hunter’s Key • K-Bar Ranch • Lake Forest • Live Oak Preserve • Pebble Creek • Richmond Place • Tampa Palms • West Meadows WESLEY CHAPEL: Aberdeen • Belle Chase • Brookside • Chapel Pines • Country Walk • Lexington Oaks • Meadow Pointe • New River • Northwood • Pinewalk • Pine Ridge • Saddlebrook • Saddleridge Estates • Saddlewood • Seven Oaks • Lakes at Northwood • The Villages of Wesley Chapel • Wesley Pointe • Westbrook Estates • Williamsburg

Cypress Creek Town Center Project Permitted To Proceed By Michael Smith After being on hold for a year and a half, the Cypress Creek Town Center (CCTC) in Wesley Chapel is once again moving forward, since the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) earlier this month agreed to lift the suspension of the permit that it issued to the project developers after several violations of that permit, in which turbid, or muddy, water was allowed to escape from the site into the nearby environmentallysensitive waterway for which the project is named. According to a USACE press release, in addition to a $297,000 fine that was levied against the developers, the Cleveland-based Richard E. Jacobs Group and Tampa’s Sierra Properties, in August, the Corps also made some changes to the permit, although the

changes are characterized as “administrative in nature and related to minor project boundary changes and corrections to the mitigation plan.” The release also says, “The Corps’ investigation of the causes of the turbid discharges revealed that all documented discharges occurred as a result of human error and construction sequencing. The Corps found no evidence to suggest that the discharges were a result of a fault in the design of the stormwater management system….The Corps therefore concluded that the permit does not require modification based on issues surrounding the turbid discharges and the stormwater management system.” And, the release also says that officials with the Southwest Florida Water Management District (aka Swiftmud) and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection concurred

with the Corps’ findings. Thomas P. Schmitz, vice president and CCTC project manager for the Jacobs Group, said that his company is “pleased” about the permit reinstatement, but added that work on the project will almost have to start over from scratch. “Since this project has been on hold for a year and a half, we will need to rebid the construction contracts,” Construction will begin again soon on the Cypress Schmitz said. “We also need to Creek Town Center, after the U.S. Army Corps of again coordinate our plans Engineers determined this month that this runoff with the major retailers that from the project that flowed into the creek in 2007 had previously committed to was not the fault of the project’s design. the project. The current state it is possible that some changes will of the economy has affected many occur in our tenant mix.” retailers’ expansion plans, not just in See “Cypress Creek” on page 6. the Tampa Bay area but nationwide, so

News Briefs—Police Dismiss Fears Over Door-To-Door Salesperson

NEIGHBORHOOD MAGAZINE!

Thousands Mourn TPD Officer Slain In The Line Of Duty, News From The New Tampa Chamber Of Commerce, Lots Of Local Sports News & Much More!

We Visit T’s Boutique In The Grove At Wesley Chapel, A Review Of The New Kennedy BBQ, Your Chance To Win In Our 2009 Dining Survey & More!

See pages 3-28!

See pages 29-48!

See “News Briefs” on page 8.

ECRWSS

LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, SPORTS & EDUCATION

decided that there was no evidence that she had done anything wrong. The person who filed the complaint claimed that the woman had unlocked his bathroom window, but Doll says that complainant wasn’t sure if the window had in fact been locked in the first place. Meanwhile, the Tampa Police Department (TPD) has received many e-mails and phone calls about the same alleged scammer from residents all around the New Tampa area and beyond, some even dating back to last year, according to TPD spokesperson Lisa Timmer. “She sure has generated a lot of interest, but at this point, we’re not aware of anyone being victimized by this person,” Timmer says.

Postal Customer

Also Inside This Issue!

home and when they would be there, and then would attempt to gain entry into the home by asking for water or to use the bathroom. Her real goal, allegedly, was to be alone in the house so that she could unlock a window, presumably so that she or someone else could come back later to break in. One resident in the e-mail chain, who we were not able to identify, says that he had confirmed with “many neighbors, and the ones with bathroom windows had their windows unlocked,” and also claimed to have seen a man in the neighborhood taking pictures and notes of homes and cars in driveways. “I have reported this to the cops three times, and they are aware,” the person wrote. According to Pasco County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) spokesman Kevin Doll, however, PCSO has only received one formal complaint about the young woman. They were able to locate her, and after questioning,

PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID TAMPA FL PERMIT 2801

Over the past several weeks, residents of the Meadow Pointe community in Wesley Chapel have been circulating e-mails warning their neighbors about a door-to-door salesperson who they believe was trying to set them up to have their homes burglarized and many New Tampa residents also have reported possible incidents involving the same person. Pasco County and City of Tampa law enforcement officials say, however, that they have inves-

tigated the matter and found no evidence of any wrongdoing. According to the e-mail and a notice posted on the Meadow Pointe Community Development District website, the solicitor, a college-age woman with a heavy German accent, was supposedly a foreign exchange student who was going door-to-door within the subdivision trying to sell educational materials in order to earn college credit. Once she made contact with a homeowner, she would ask personal questions about who lives in the

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 โ ข Volume 17, Issue 19 โ ข September 18, 2009 โ ข www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Taking The Fight To Cancer & Other Local Fund Raisers Way back in 1967, when very few people survived any type of cancer, my father was diagnosed with and treated for an unusual type of skin cancer. That same year, my best friend Doug’s mom Norma was diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time. Norma, who I loved dearly, passed away a few years later, after her breast cancer returned. Some 40+ years later, my father has never had a recurrence of the disease. Two people. One disease. Two very different outcomes. I have attended and photographed many of the American Cancer Society’s “Relay for Life” fund raisers over the years, including many of the New Tampa Relays, but I have never been involved with planning the event. But, when 2010 New Tampa Relay team development chair Aaron Wetherington of MetLife asked me to get more involved, I decided it was time. To that end, although there isn’t yet an actual date set for the 2010 New Tampa Relay, Aaron’s committee is planning a great social event to help introduce local businesses and organizations who might be interested in sponsoring or getting involved with the local Relay. That social, which will include refreshments, will be held poolside at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites on Galbraith Rd. (near Muvico)

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Kate Kramer • Melissa O’Brien

Advertising Sales & Billing Manager Julie Rinaldi Advertising Account Executives Sandra Nelson

Art Director Tony Sica Graphic Designer Sandra Nelson Office & Marketing Assistants Jacob Glenn • Karen Glenn

Nothing that appears in New Tampa Neighborhood News may be reproduced, whether wholly or in part, without permission. Opinions expressed by New Tampa Neighborhood News writers are their own and do not reflect the publisher’s opinion. The deadline for outside editorial submissions and advertisements for Volume 17, Issue 19, of New Tampa Neighborhood News is Monday, August 31, 2009. New Tampa Neighborhood News will consider previously non-published outside editorial submissions if they are double spaced, typed and less than 500 words. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates. New Tampa Neighborhood News will not return unsolicited editorial materials. New Tampa Neighborhood News reserves the right to edit &/or reject any advertising. New Tampa Neighborhood News is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the actual cost of the advertising space itself, not for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. © 2009 JM2 Communications, Inc.

An editorial by Gary Nager on Thursday, October 22, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. For more information, e-mail awetheringto@metlife.com. Of course, there are other events to help battle cancer, including the upcoming “Breast Cancer 3-Day” sponsored by the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation. The local 3-Day, which will be held Halloween weekend, has a number of New Tampa-based teams getting ready for the event. We told you last issue about “Team Boobie Lovin’,” which has several events planned, including the upcoming “Fashion for a Cure,” which will be held Friday, October 9, 7 p.m.-9 p.m., also at the Holiday Inn Express. However, we also have learned that another group, “Team Hope,” led by New Tampa residents Connie Bainbridge and her sister Ros Miller, also plans to participate in the 3-Day and also is seeking community support to raise as much money as possible. For more info about the “Boobie Lovin’” team, e-mail pmorris1@ metlife.com. For info about “Team Hope,” visit the following Facebook link: facebook.com/home. php#/ group.php?gid=48395389269. And of course, cancer isn’t the only illness affecting millions. As we told you last issue, Plant City-based artist Jules Burt is again planning the “High Heel Hike” to benefit actress Jenny McCarthy’s Generation Rescue organization for children with autism. A group called “The Real Housewives of New Tampa” will participate in the Hike to be held on Saturday, Septem-

ber 26, at the Westshore Mall, led by Tampa Palms resident Aimee Lucas. The “Housewives” kicked off their involvement when they recently brought my buddy Susan Saiger and the rest of the Funny Divas to The Brass Tap at the Shops at Wiregrass. We’ll have pictures and an update on how much money was raised at that performance in our next issue. For more info, visit HighHeel Hike.com or GenerationRescue.org. And finally, don’t forget about the third annual “Tee Up For Our Troops” charity golf tournament at the MacDill

Air Force Base golf course on Friday, October 9. The tournament, which is being organized again by New Tampa Noon Rotary Club member Valerie Casey, will benefit the Tampa Fisher House, the 21-room home located adjacent to the James A. Haley Veterans Administration Hospital. The Tampa Fisher House, which opened in 2007, the “home away from home” for families of wounded military members and veterans who receive treatment at the VA hospital. For information about sponsorships or individual play, email valcasey@tampabay.rr.com.

Table of Contents LOCAL NEWS, BUSINESS, EDUCATION & SPORTS UPDATES..............................Pages 1-28 Fallen TPD Officer’s Accused Killer Is Indicted............4 New Tampa News Briefs (cont. from page 1)...............6 Auto Burglars Escape After High Speed Chase, Wesley Chapel Man Robbed At Knifepoint S.R. 56 Extension Set To Open By End Of August......8 New Tampa Community Calendar..................10-11 New Tampa Chamber Of Commerce Newsletter..12 Gecko Media Helps Direct Traffic To Your Site....16-17 Thompson Studios - Great Photos & More..........18-19 New Tampa School News..........................................21 New Tampa Sports Updates.................................22-24 NTLL All-Star Round-Up, Deven Rabeiro Named Kids Tour Player Of The Year, Gymnast Sarah Wolford Earns Full Scholarship At Iowa

Neighborhood Magazine T’s Boutique Is More Than Just A Gift Shop...........29-30 Hall Of Famer Tony Perez Visits Our Area...................33 Our Exclusive Bay Area Concert Calendar...............34-35 A Visist To Kennedy BBQ In Heritage Isles..........38-39 Our Exclusive 2009 Dining Survey & Contest.....42

NEW TAMPA COLOR CLASSFIEDS..............46

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Fallen Tampa Police Officer’s Accused Murderer Indicted By Michael Smith More than 5,000 mourners turned out earlier this month to pay their last respects to the Tampa Police Department (TPD) officer and Wesley Chapel resident who was killed in the line of duty in August. TPD Cpl. Mike Roberts, 38, who lived in the Lexington Oaks subdivision in Wesley Chapel, was a Florida native who had been with the force for 11 years. According to a TPD release, he was on burglary patrol on Nebraska Ave. in North Tampa at around 10 p.m. on August 19 when he observed a suspicious man pushing a grocery cart full of unknown items. Cpl. Roberts attempted to question the man, 34year-old Humberto Delgado, Jr., but Delgado struggled with the officer. He broke away and ran across the street, but Roberts quickly caught up with him and the two began fighting again. That’s when Delgado allegedly pulled out a handgun and began hitting Roberts with it, before firing one shot that struck the officer on the right side of his chest, in an area that was not protected by his bulletproof vest. Witnesses then saw Delgado run back to the shopping cart and remove a large canvas bag. At that point, a second TPD officer arrived on the scene, and as he began to chase the suspect, Delgado pulled an AR-15 assault rifle from the bag and pointed it at the officer. He then fled while the second officer attempted to help Cpl. Roberts, who was transported to Tampa General Hospital and passed away at 10:50 p.m. Cpl. Roberts, who is survived by his wife Cindy and a 3-year-old son, was born in Clearwater, but moved to Newfoundland at the age of 8. After earning a Bachelor’s degree at Memorial University in Newfoundland, he returned to the Tampa Bay area and joined TPD in 1998. At the same time, he also signed up with the U.S. Army Reserves and was deployed to Bosnia,

which delayed the start of his law enforcement career. He also later served in the U.S. Air Force Reserves. When he returned to the U.S., Cpl. Roberts rose through the ranks at TPD, performing various duties, including street patrol, acting as a Field Training Officer and as a K-9 handler, which was his favorite police activity, according to TPD Chief Stephen Hogue, who delivered Roberts’ eulogy before an overflowing crowd at St. Timothy Catholic Church in Lutz on August 25. (Note-Roberts was actually a member of St. Mark the Evangelist Catholic Church in New Tampa, but services were moved to the church in Lutz because of the need for more room). He was promoted to corporal earlier this year and was made a supervisor in the Uniform Patrol Division, but at the time of his death, Roberts was awaiting a transfer to the Major Crimes Bureau, where he was to begin a new assignment as a detective. Hogue said that Cpl. Roberts received 33 commendations from the department, including a Life Saving Award that he received in 2005 for helping to save a man who was attempting to commit suicide. And, just this year, he received an Excellent Duty Award for helping to locate a lost 3year-old girl in March. He also was known as a practical joker within the department and even played goalie on a TPD hockey team. “It’s impossible to make sense of the tragic loss of such a fine man,” Chief Hogue said. “All that’s left for us to do is honor his memory and the sacrifice he and his family have made.” Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio called Roberts’ death “a terrible tragedy.” “Gunned down while working to make Tampa a safer place to live, Cpl. Roberts served as an example of the outstanding commitment and dedication of our police force,” she added. “May his son grow up knowing that his father was our hero.”

Cpl. Roberts was the 17th TPD officer to be shot and killed while on duty. The day before his memorial service, Cpl. Roberts’ name was added to the official TPD Memorial Monument at the department’s Franklin St. headquarters and flags around the city were flown at half-staff. In addition, the U.S. Flag of Honor, which flew at 9/11 and has (L. to r.) Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio, Cpl. Mike Roberts and TPD Chief Stephen Hogue. been used since then to honor fallen servicemen and was found to have three handguns, the others, was brought in and flown at assault rifle and ammunition in his poshalf-staff over the TPD District 2 headsession. On September 3, he was indictquarters, where Roberts was stationed. ed by a grand jury on charges of first After the shooting, a TPD K-9 officer was able to track down Delgado, degree murder of a law enforcement officer, aggravated assault of a law who surrendered without further incienforcement officer, carrying a condent. According to reports, Delgado was a police officer himself in the Virgin cealed firearm and depriving an officer of means of protection or communicaIslands, where he was born, and also tion, and remains in jail without bond. served briefly in the U.S. Army before A memorial account has been being honorably discharged after an established for the family of Cpl. injury. He lived in North Carolina before coming to Tampa to live with an Mike Roberts at Tampa Bay Federal Credit Union. Donations may be uncle in Oldsmar, but recently had left his uncle’s home and was apparently liv- made at any Tampa Bay area branch. For more information, contact Susan ing on the streets. Delage at 276-3373. When he was arrested, Delgado

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

“Cypress Creek” Continued from page 1 At least two of those retailers who had been previously announced as potential tenants in the CCTC, Circuit City and Linens N’ Things, are no longer in business, but there are still signs on the site saying that a Kohl’s department store and a Super Target are “coming soon.” Deeanne Roberts, a spokesperson for the Jacobs Group, says, however, that she cannot provide any specifics as to any potential tenants at this time. She adds that because of all the work that needs to be re-done, there is no way to say when construction will actually get under way again, nor when the mall will be completed. Questions and concerns about adverse environmental impacts have plagued the CCTC project since it was initially approved by Pasco County officials in 2004. Environmentalists and area residents alike came out in force at that time, saying that the massive project, which calls for a million square feet of retail, office, residential and other uses, will cause irreparable harm to Cypress Creek, which, in addition to being a protected Outstanding Florida Waterway, is a primary tributary of the

Hillsborough River, from which the City of Tampa gets its drinking water. Although the developers made major changes to the project’s original plan in order to meet those concerns, the Tampa Bay chapter of the Sierra Club and several other environmental groups got together to file a lawsuit challenging the USACE’s permit in federal court after that permit was issued in May 2007. That lawsuit was put on hold while the Corps was reviewing the permit, but according to Denise Layne, the spokesperson for the Tampa Bay chapter of the Sierra Club, the group is again consulting with its lawyers to decide how to proceed. “I’m obviously very disappointed in the whole [review] process,” Layne says. “I don’t know what it’s going to take to make [the Corps] realize that it’s their responsibility to protect the land and wildlife [in and around Cypress Creek]. So, right now, we are definitely looking at all of our options going forward.” To see complete details of the USACE’s review and findings, as well as the full scope of the modifications made to the CCTC permit, visit www.saj.usace.army.mil. To find the report, click on the link for “Regulatory Division” and then the link for “News & Announcements.”

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

“New Briefs”

Continued from page 1 “She sure has generated a lot of interest, but at this point, we’re not aware of anyone being victimized by this person,” Timmer says. Timmer also notes that even in subdivisions where soliciting is prohibited, such as Meadow Pointe, police cannot arrest a person for doing so, unless community officials want to pursue charges for trespassing, and that only counts if the person continues to stay in a public area after being asked to leave. Otherwise, Timmer says, a person’s best protection is to treat door-todoor salespeople like any other stranger. “If you don’t know them, don’t let them in your house,” she says. “And, if they get too pushy, just tell them to leave.”

Auto Burglars Escape

Auto burglars who broke into seven cars in one night in the New Tampa area, including an unmarked police vehicle, managed to escape after a brief high-speed pursuit on I-75. According to a report issued by the Tampa Police Department (TPD), the thieves hit during the night of September 9-10, burglarizing three cars in the West Meadows subdivision and two others in Richmond Place, while the seventh, an unmarked TPD vehicle, was at an undisclosed location. Five of the vehicles had their windows smashed out, while another was unlocked, and the last car only had three of its tires and rims stolen because the thieves

were interrupted while they were in the act of committing the crime. A TPD officer spotted the suspects’ vehicle, a white four-door pickup truck with the tag number 341MQE, and gave chase, but the suspects managed to get away after heading south on I-75 from Bruce B. Downs Blvd. A statewide alert was issued, but the suspects had not been captured at our press time. The tag was reported stolen in Orange County on September 3. In addition to the three tires and rims, the suspects also made off with a 9mm pistol, four GPS units, a couple of stereos, and other items. If you have information about the suspects, call TPD at 931-6500.

However. TPD Det. Heather Bishop says that Ellis, who is homeless, used Dang’s credit card at a nearby convenience store and also at the Wal-Mart store at 19910 BBD, where he purchased a Dell laptop computer. A short time later, he also purchased a Toshiba laptop from the Wal-Mart store on S.R. 54 in Land O’Lakes. Det. Bishop says Wal-Mart’s surveillance video showed Ellis and another man buying the computer and then leaving the store’s parking lot in a red Ford pick-up truck with a bed full of scrap metal. Bishop and other TPD investigators checked out local scrap businesses and were able to identify the truck and the other individual from the

video, who turned out to be the owner of the scrap business, Steven Tyson. Tyson had employed Ellis and was giving him a ride to the store on the day of the thefts. Bishop says Tyson cooperated with the investigators and was not charged with any crimes. Ellis gave a full confession and had Dang’s wallet and the computers in his possession. He was charged with armed robbery, grand theft and fraudulent use of a credit card and also was served with a warrant for failure to appear in court on a previous charge of child neglect. At our press time, Ellis was being held without bond. Bishop says he also will face grand theft and fraudulent credit card use in Pasco. — MS

Robbery Suspect Captured

A Wesley Chapel man escaped harm but was forced to give up his wallet, money and credit cards to an armed robber who accosted him in the parking lot of a local store. The thief was soon captured, however, after he used the stolen credit cards to purchase a pair of laptop computers. The robbery took place at around 7 p.m. on August 18, when Lexington Oaks resident Anthony Dang was leaving the Home Depot store at 17601 Bruce B. Downs (BBD) Blvd. in New Tampa. As he was getting into his car, the suspect, later identified as 38-yearold Don Frederick Ellis, held a 6-inch knife to his side and demanded his money. Dang handed over his wallet and Ellis fled into some nearby woods. Dang and several other customers gave chase, but Ellis managed to get away.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW T AMPA

Applications are still being accepted for the Second Annual Miss New Tampa Pageant, which will be held at the Pebble Creek Community Center (18715 Bent Tree Lane) on Sunday, September 27. Contestants must be between the ages of 4-19 and live in either Hillsborough County or surrounding counties. No pageant experience is necessary. All entrants receive an official Miss New Tampa T-shirt. For more information, call Vicky McShane at 714-6513 or visit www.missnewtampapageant.com.

Call For Artists & Crafters

The Tampa Palms Women’s Club is seeking local artists and crafters to participate in its annual “Arts & Crafts Under the Palms” show & sale, which will be held Saturday-Sunday, October 17-18, at the City Plaza at Tampa Palms shopping center. For more information, call 9772261 or e-mail tampapalmswomens club@yahoo.com.

Wednesday, September 23 – The New Tampa Noon Rotary Club meets every Wednesday at noon at Circles

New Tampa Kiwanis Club

Alzheimer’s Seminar

Community Calendar

Miss New Tampa Pageant

Noon Rotary Club

New Tampa Bistro (19651 Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in the Pebble Creek Collection shopping plaza). For more info, call 760-4426.

(BNI), a group of business professionals who are dedicated to helping their businesses grow through qualified referrals, meets every Wednesday at 7:30 a.m. at Heritage Isles Clubhouse (18630 Plantation Bay Dr.). For more information, call Matthew Riddell at 907-6565.

Wednesday, September 23 – The Kiwanis Club of New Tampa meets every Wednesday at 11:45 am at the Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd). For info, please send an email to info@newtampakiwanis.org or visit newtampakiwanis.org.

New Tampa P.A.R.

Wednesday, September 23 – New Tampa Professionals Achieving Results (P.A.R.) is a professional networking group that meets every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club, for networking and nine holes of golf. There is a one-time $35 membership fee, and weekly greens and cart fees are $20. Contact Chuck Lewandoski at 269-7100 or clewandoski@westcoast financial.com.

Business Networking Int’l

Wednesday, September 23 – Business Networking International

Wednesday, September 23 – The University of South Florida Suncoast Alzheimer’s Center will sponsor a free program entitled “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Caregivers Need to Know,” 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Johnny B. Bird Alzheimer’s Institute (4001 E. Fletcher Ave.). The program is designed for individuals who are caring for a family member or friend with Alzheimer’s disease, and will cover a variety of topics. Lunch will be provided. Space is limited, and pre-registration is required. For more info, or to register, call Eileen Poiley at 974-4355.

New Tampa Evening Rotary

Thursday, September 24 – The New Tampa Evening Rotary Club meets every Thursday, 6:15 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). The group’s guest speaker on September 24 will be Tampa City Council member Mary Alvarez, whose subject will be the Tampa Sports Authority, and on Octo-

ber 1, the group’s guest speaker will be Katie McGill of Dress For Success Tampa Bay. For more information, call Sherri Ferguson at 892-9782.

New Tampa Rotary Club

Friday, September 25 – The New Tampa Rotary Club meets every Friday, 7 a.m., at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (TPG&CC, 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). For more information, visit www.newtamparotary.org or contact Matt Palmer at 972-9235 or matt.palmer@earthlink.net.

Back To School Carnival

Saturday, September 26 – The New Tampa Dance Theater (10701 Cross Creek Blvd.) will host a Back To School Carnival, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. There will be dance demonstrations, games and prizes for kids and plenty of carnival-style treats to eat & drink. For additional information, call 994-6838.

Freedom High Golf Tourney

Monday, September 28 – The Freedom High Patriots football team will host its second annual golf tournament at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). Registration starts at 10:30 a.m., and the shotgun start will be at noon. There also

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

will be putting, closest-to-the-hole and longest drive competitions, plus lunch. The tournament costs $100 per player, and special sponsorship packages are available. The entry deadline is Monday, September 21. For more information, or to make a donation to the team, call Robert Gassaway at 978-3731.

Community Garage Sale

Friday-Saturday, October 2-3 – The residents of Pebble Creek will hold their annual community-wide garage sale, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. on both days. Call 973-8064 for more information.

Florida Writers Association

Saturday, October 3 – The Florida Writers Association meets on the first Saturday of every month, 10 a.m.noon, at the Barnes & Noble bookstore at the Shops at Wiregrass mall in Wesley Chapel. All meetings are free and open to the public. Call 907-7739 for more info.

Evening Rotary Casino Night

Saturday, October 3 – The New Tampa Evening Rotary Club will host its first annual “Casino Night” fund raiser, 6 p.m.-11 p.m., at Hunter’s Green Country Club (18101 Longwater Run Dr.). Tickets cost $50 per person and include heavy hors d’oeuvres,

door prizes, entry into the silent auction, and $1,000 in fake gambling “money.” There also will be a cash bar. Tickets are available in advance from Evening Rotary Club members. For more information, call Sherri Ferguson at 892-9782.

‘Saturday Night Lights’

Saturday, October 3 – The New Tampa Family YMCA (16221 Compton Dr., in Tampa Palms) will host its annual “Saturday Night Lights” fund raiser, 7 p.m.-11 p.m., to help raise money for the Y’s Building Strong Kids campaign, which helps to provide scholarships for YMCA programs to kids from low income families. The event will include dinner, cocktails, live entertainment and more. Tickets cost $50 in advance or $60 at the door. For more information, call 8669622 or visit tampaymca.org.

restaurants and businesses. For more information (including a list of supplies needed by the Humane Society) visit centralbankfl. com or call 929-4477.

Tickets are available in advance from any Rotary Club member, by calling 295-4663, or by sending an e-mail to Rob@ciccioslodge.com. Or, visit casino.newtamparotary.org.

‘Breakfast’ Rotary Casino Night

Oktoberfest

Saturday, October 10 – The Rotary Club of New Tampa will host its annual “Casino Night” fund raiser, beginning at 6:30 p.m. at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club (5811 Tampa Palms Blvd.). Tickets cost $75 per person, which includes $1,000 in casino chips, hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer, a free martini bar and live entertainment by Joe Cortez. There also will be prize baskets and a silent auction.

Friday-Saturday, October 16-17 – Family of Christ Lutheran Church (16190 Bruce B. Downs Blvd.) will host its first annual Oktoberfest celebration, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. both days. The free festival will feature authentic German music & food, along with plenty of fun games and other activities for the whole family. Call 558-9343 for more information.

Community Outreach Day

Saturday, October 3 – Central Bank (20701 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., just south of County Line Rd.) will host a Community Outreach Day, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The event will benefit the Humane Society of Tampa Bay, and will include the opportunity to adopt a pet, free blood pressure screenings and free pictures with your pet. There also will be free snacks and beverages, as well as gifts and giveaways from local

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

2008-09 NTCC Board of Directors

New Tampa Chamber of Commerce, Inc.

President-Scott D. Estes

Board Members:

Matt Palmer, Treas. Rachel Haviland, Secy. Connie Bladon Seema Jain Jerry Miller

PO Box 46775, Tampa, FL 33646 Information: (813) 293-2464 Fax: (813) 973-8259

Website: NewTampa.Org

Rodney Koschman Kristen Kipp Regina Ramalheira Mary Ann Yaney

Administrative Assistant: Matt Urbanovsky

Chamber’s Events Committee Seeking Approval For ‘Extravaganza’ In our last issue, we told you that the Board of Directors of the new New Tampa Chamber of Commerce (NTCC) had voted to cancel the upcoming fourth annual New Tampa Art Festival and that new president Scott Estes had taken over from Jerry Miller, who had to step down from his position for personal reasons. Since then, the Chamber has been a whirlwind of activity, so much so that Estes did not submit a “President’s Message” for this issue. Therefore, in order to avoid having a blank Chamber page in this issue, I decided, as a member of the Chamber’s new Events Committee, to try to provideupdates on the Chamber and its plans to elect a new Board for 2009-10, replace the Art Festival with another event, zero in on a date for the 2010 Taste of New Tampa and more.

Board Openings & Proposed Holiday Extravaganza

Before the advent of the Chamber, the New Tampa Community Council had always combined its Annual Meeting & Business Expo with the election of the Council’s new Board of Directors. Todd J. Wiener, DMD, PA General Dentistry 14201 Professional Plaza • 14201 Bruce B. Downs Blvd

Unfortunately, the transition from the Council to the Chamber has delayed the gathering of potential candidates for the Chamber’s 2009-10 Board, so much so that newly elected Events Committee chair Mary Ann Yaney was asked by her committee to propose to the existing Board at its September 20 meeting that this year’s Annual Meeting and Election of Officers be combined with a new fall event, to be called (if the Board approves it) the NTCC Holiday Extravaganza! The Extravaganza would be an opportunity for restaurants, salons, spas and any other holiday-oriented businesses to have a low-cost booth space (similar in size and scope as those you see each year at the Taste) AND (unlike at the Taste) even have the opportunity to sell gift cards/certificates to the event’s attendees. If the Board approves, the Extravaganza would be held at the Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites on Galbraith Rd. (near the Muvico theaters) on Sunday, November 8. For additional information about running for the 2009-10 NTCC Board of Directors or to

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You Can Get Involved With The New Tampa Chamber Of Commerce At These Monthly Events! Chamber Luncheons - Every 2nd Monday of the month at Pebble Creek Golf Club Chamber Breakfasts - Every 3rd Tueday of the month at Tampa Palms Golf & Country Club Networking Happy Hours - The last Thursday of the month at Stonewood Grill & Tavern, Tampa Palms Please call the NTCC Hotline at 293-2464 for exact start times.

find out how your business can get involved in the Holiday Extravaganza as a business exhibitor or sponsor, call the NTCC Hotline at 293-2464.

Other Events Committee Proposals

Some of the other concepts discussed by the Events Committee that were planned to be proposed to the Board include regular “brown bag” lunch meetings (in addition to the Chamber’s already-scheduled once-amonth luncheon and breakfast meetings; see schedule above) for business owners that would provide not only networking opportunities but also feature guest speakers who could provide educational information about marketing, web development, team-building and much more. The Events Committee also planned to ask the Board to name Chamber Ambassadors who could appear at Ribbon Cutting ceremonies

for new businesses and other special occasions, as well as solicit additional Chamber members. The Events Committee also would like to try to set Sunday, April 18, as the date for the 2010 Taste of New Tampa & Business & Health Expo and Committee member Kim Martin of Pebble Creek Golf Club, would like to begin planning the Chamber’s first-ever fund-raising golf tournament. And finally, the Events Committee would also like to ensure that the Chamber’s website, NewTampa.org, is properly updated and improved, so members and prospective members alike can more easily access the latest meeting, event and membership information. For additional information, call the NTCC Hotline at 293-2464. Get involved with the Chamber! Gary Nager NTCC Events Committee Member

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Gecko Media Offers Effective Web Marketing For Your Business! By Melissa O’Brien In the world of Internet marketing, some say your website has about 30 seconds to make a good impression. That means if your site is not one of the first to appear in a search-engine or if it’s not appealing or easy to use, you have likely just lost a potential client – forever. Gecko Media, located off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel, can help you make the most of your online marketing. Through web site design, database development, corporate brand development, and search engine marketing (SEM) strategies, Gecko can help you create a first impression that can turn into lasting business partnerships. “A website needs to look professional and have a clear message,” says the company’s co-founder Aaron Houck. “In order for customers to find you, each page needs to be designed from a search engine optimization perspective. For example, people look by the service or project they need in the nearest city, so you usually are competing with people in your area. If you have a site that is poorly designed, your information may not appear for those people where you live. By optimizing the search-engine process, we make sure people find you. In addition, your ‘front’ page should have a clear message

that entices a customer to contact the business, and once you get that initial contact, you want to update your site often to keep people coming back.” Gecko Media can work with clients who are just starting a company, as well as those who already are established. “If you need help getting started, we can help with everything — from web design, logo development, marketing and more,” says Houck. “We have partnered and worked with companies of all sizes, from one-person start-ups to some of the nation's most recognizable brands, such as Microsoft, AT&T and Raymond James Financial. We look at the entire picture when it comes to your business, from memorable design to dynamic programming to measurable marketing.” Houck says that web advertising is becoming a necessity in today’s marketplace. “If a company is choosing between the telephone book, a billboard or a website, the website is [usually] a far better return on your dollar,” he says. “With a website, once you design it, if it if done effectively, it will get you better results. On a billboard, which can be very costly, the people who may see is as they are driving by may not need your service right then and there and if they do need you, may

Steve Weir and Aaron Houck are the co-founders of Gecko Media, a web-design & more company in the Cypress Glen Professional park off S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel. not have time to write the phone number down [while driving]. When someone is looking online, they usually need the service right away, and the website allows for layers of detail that the phone book or a billboard simply can’t.” Houck says that Gecko-designed websites also allow for easy tracking. “When I went to business school, you couldn’t tie your advertising dollars to sales,” he says. “Now, you canat least tell how many leads come in the door and be more confident in your marketing by doing it online. We use Google Analytics on websites, which generates detailed statistics about the number of visitors the site receives. From there, it gives you really great information to find out what key words

worked and what search engines people used and the pages they found.” Houck, who grew up in nearby Odessa, FL, founded Gecko Media with his partner Steve Weir in 1996. Both Houck and Weir attended the University of South Florida and received Bachelor’s Degrees in Business. “We started right out of college at a time when we had to teach some people what the internet was,” says Houck. Today, the company has six employees. For Live Oak Preserve resident Shannon Dicara, Gecko Media was the perfect answer to creating the look, feel and design of her internet business, PerfectPartiesByMail.com. “I Googled web companies and Gecko Media came up,” says Dicara. “I

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Gecko Media did a great job of designing the still-under-construction website for a certain local publication! contacted four companies and Gecko has used Gecko for its website design since April of 2005. Media was the only one that went “We have always experienced a above and beyond. We talked by phone and by e-mail and they even came over high level of customer service with my house to discuss things with me. I Gecko Media,” says Anderson. “We did not want the site to be too mascuhave worked with other web design line or too feminine and I had a hair companies in the past but there was ribbon I wanted to incorporate into the always a disconnect with what was promised and what was delivered.” design. They did everything for me – Anderson also says that his web coming up with a great logo and the entire look of the website.” business, which is geared at helping Dicara says that working with new mothers, takes a lot of technical Gecko Media has been, “One-stop know-how. “It looks very user-friendly on the front end,” says Anderson. “But shopping. They offer a lot of services, on the back end, it is very complex and like logo design and an e-commerce not everyone can do this and do it well. system, and you can pick and choose which options you want. They are very I highly recommend Gecko Media to others. They truly are a partner with us reasonably priced and I have recomand we are not just a paycheck for mended them to other people.” Noah Anderson, the owner of them. They have turned us off of some big projects that they would have benePlanningFamily.com, a website that is fited from because they thought it based out of Costa Mesa, CA, worked with Weir ten years ago in Tampa and might not make sense for us. They are

very ethical.” Gecko also is the web design company that created NTNeighborhoodNews.com, which is already generating new business for this publication. “Steve and Aaron are awesome,” says publisher and editor Gary Nager. “They always get things done when and how they say they will. In my experience, that’s unique among web design companies” Gecko Media is located at 2406 Cypress Glen Dr., Suite 101 in the Cypress Glen Professional Park off of S.R. 56 in Wesley Chapel. For more information or a free consultation, call 936-8919 or visit www.geckomedia.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Thompson Studios Offers Quality Photographic Services & More! Thompson Studios, New Tampa’s first and premiere photography studio, opened it’s doors in January of 2004 in Cory Lake Isles with one approach in mind: make every client’s experience a memorable one that ends with receiving stunning photos that audibly take their breath away — whether you you’re looking for quality portrait, wedding or commercial photography.. Today’s advanced digital photography easily allows individuals to start small photography businesses out of their homes, garages or simply as an “on-location” photographer! “Since we opened six years ago, when we were the only photography studio [in New Tampa], the number of photography choices has grown with the population,” says Thompson, who adds that it may be useful to understand what is unique about each option to choose where you connect/match.

HS Senior Photography

Thompson Studios has photographed more than 3,000 high school seniors over the last six years and has solidified its reputation by providing higher-end, custom senior portraits combined with a fun, “model-like” experience, as opposed to the average photos and the factory-like approach

taken by most school yearbook photography companies. “Many seniors and parents are under the misconception that they are stuck with the senior porPhotographer traits taken by the school’s contracted Bob Thomspon of photographer provid- Thompson Stuing yearbook images dios on Cross [at that school],” says Creek Blvd. Thompson. “But, this is not the case. The student must select his/her yearbook photo from the contract photographer, but [we can still provide your] senior portraits.” Thompson adds, “Our approach has been a one-at-a-time, hold-yourhand- through-the-entire-process kind of thing. We offer hour-long sessions, as well as location sessions, and we encourage the seniors to bring outfits and props that say who they are today.” He also says that many seniors are having fun posting and sharing the slideshow of their portrait images on YouTube, Facebook or MySpace.

Portraits With Personality

When asked what distinguishes his work from other studios, Thompson

says, “I’m always trying to capture a real moment, something pure and believable, something authentic and innocent, something in that moment that will never happen again and has never happened before. Given that I’m almost always photographing people, that means that the people in my photographs appear natural and relaxed, even if we set the shot up. The smiles are not contrived, but real and the eyes are engaged. Families are portrayed in a moment of togetherness and a spark of emotion fills your heart. Giving people a fun, playful and upbeat experience goes a long way towards getting people relaxed and enjoying themselves, and surely makes for better and more uplifting portraits. Specializing in commissioned, fine art wall hangings, Thompson Studios also offers print packages, a wide range of digital photography products, the finest albums and customized creative art pieces imagined through a creative design process with the photographer and his clients. New Tampa resident Lissette Farina says that Thompson Studios, “rocks harder than I’d ever imagined and their work is pure magic.” When you make the decision to invest in a photographic portrait, be it maternity, baby, family, or a reunion,

consider 3 things: 1. Do any of your friends or people you respect have portraits hanging in their homes and if so, and you like the work, did you ever ask your friend who the photographer was? 2. Have you checked out the photographer’s web site and blog, to see if you feel a connection to the ambiance of the studio and the photographer through the words and images? 3. Have you visited the studio? You’ll be able to see more work, speak with the photographer and be excited about scheduling your portrait session.

Weddings A Specialty

Having shot weddings for the past 18 years, Thompson says he has come to notice how the trends in wedding photography change almost every 2-3 years. Thompson recognizes that the most recent trend combines contemporary photojournalism focusing on the unique, with edgy fashion images digitally and creatively enhanced. “I love my wedding photos!,” says says Sheila Schweitzer of Shepré Hair Salon (see “The Kiss” on Thompson’s blog). “They’re edgy, they’re loving, they’re gorgeous…and, they truly captured ‘The Kiss!” Thompson says he also is excited

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

about his associate photographer, Mike Ossola, who complements Bob’s photography at his clients’ weddings. “When we hired Mike Ossola last year to be our digital post-production artist, I knew he was a great photographer. Mike’s bringing an edgy, fashiondriven style which, when combined with my contemporary photojournalistic style, allows us to cover each important moment at a wedding uniquely and creatively.” Because of the recent onslaught of the “social media” sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, MySpace, etc.), a new realm of communication exists that never really did before. And, with online communication on the rise, new couples are now very likely to contact photographers via the internet, texting, or e-mail to ask about pricing. Although going online and looking through different photographers’ web sites is a great idea to see the work, you’ll also want to meet the photographer in person before choosing one. Your wedding day is special, romantic and intimate, so you’ll want to feel at ease around your photographer (since he’ll be shadowing you most of the day), so that your wedding photos will show you at your best when you’re natural and at ease.

Commercial Photography, Too

Thompson has been shooting commercial and marketing photography

for over 16 years in the Tampa Bay area. Large national and international entities like Raymond James Financial, Baycare Healthcare, BIC, the University of Tampa, Checkers, Bank of America, Universal Life Insurance, Florida Bank Group and Thompson got the Hillsborough aspiring model County Bar Associ- and actor Max ation have all count- Redden revved ed on Bob to proup for his firstvide great images. ever photo shoot. Although many small businesses may not understand how top-quality commercial photography can boost brand recognition, entice customers to their company’s website or simply make a strong impression at a glance, some (thankfully) do. Thompson Studios has taken a library of images for dozens of New Tampa small businesses. Simply go through the pages of this newspaper and you’ll find business portraits and ad photos shot by Thompson Studios, including attorneys Matthew Jowanna and Charlie Spinner, Florida Executive Realty Realtors Jim Henning and Kristy Darragh, local dentists Dr. Paul Duga and Dr. Mark Farina, Circles New Tampa Bistro, Fit4Life

and more. Large corporations know that first impressions really do last and when flipping through a magazine or newspaper, what the eye sees first are the photos. The quality of the photography can keep the eye on the ad and convince you to read further, and the lack of quality can cause the eye to pass right over without even noticing the name. Images are important and a bad image can kill an ad. Unfortunately, with digital photography, many business people who own a digital camera will take their own shots and often end up with with poor photos. Again, take a look through this very publication and see the difference between ads with great photos and those with photos that do nothing to boost the ad or message.

Photgraphy & More!

A Florida-based, international company recently hired Thompson Studios to photograph the company’s corporate incentive trip to Germany, and received multiple benefits Thompson. In addition to his usual great photos, Thompson also provided quality musical entertainment for the company’s guests, as well as German translations for the company’s executives. Thompson, who has been a mainstay in the commercial marketing industry in Tampa Bay for the past 16 years has worked with many national

accounts that have taken him to most states in the U.S., but this trip abroad was special for Thompson, who also played his guitar and sang on the trip. The German company’s vice president of corporate communications & marketing was elated after learning that the former U.S. Air Force German linguist was fluent in the German language, having previously encountered language barriers in an attempt to find a German photographer. “We can’t wait to have Bob back next year!,” said the president of the company. “What Thompson Studios provided was of tremendous value. Not only did Bob take absolutely awesome photos of our entire trip, our awards banquet, day excursions and everything else that happened during our cruise, he’s also a great singer and guitar player with a great repertoire. Our group really enjoyed what he brought to our trip.” With camera in hand, Thompson photo-journaled the five day event. “We loved the photography and watching the slideshow of the entire trip the last night of the cruise really connected everyone,” said the President. Thompson Studios is located at 10329-H Cross Creek Blvd., in the Cory Lake Isles Professional Center. For more information, call Kim Thompson at 994-2000 or visit ThompsonStudiosTampa.com.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW T AMPA

Education Updates

Harold H. Clark Elementary 19002 Wood Sage Drive 631-4333 Principal: Brenda Griffin PTA President: Shannon Ferreira

The Clark Cougars’ motto for the 2009-10 school year is “Clark Elementary is Wild About Going Green!,” which reflects the school’s commitment to teach our youth about the importance of caring for our environment. Reusable plastic bags were provided in our Open House packets, to help all members of the Clark family become stewards to our new motto. Our students and staff will be extra focused this year on recycling and energy conservation. The PTA also is selling reusable grocery bags imprinted with a recycling symbol and the school’s name.

5th Grade Fund Raisers

Every year, our new 5th grade class takes on the distinction of becoming the “graduating class,” which is an exciting time for our youth as they take on new responsibilities, think about themselves as role models to the younger students, and enjoy school events designed especially for them. This year’s graduating class is kicking off the year with a few fund raisers

which will benefit 5th grade activities. The first fund raiser will involve participation in the West Meadows community-wide garage sale on Saturday, September 26, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Clark students will be at the West Meadows Community Clubhouse (at 8401 New Tampa Blvd.) selling donated items to interested buyers. Feel free to donate items to this student-sponsored sale by contacting Patti Capobianco at patticap@verizon.net. The next fund raiser will be a catalogue cookie dough and coffee sale that will run October 19-November 2. If you like great cookies or great coffee, the “Classic Cookie” company will be offering both during the students’ catalogue sales drive. Ordered items will be delivered before the Thanksgiving holiday. So, please support Clark’s 5th grade activities by ordering your fall/winter treats from our students during the sales drive!

Congrats, Amanda!

Congratulations go out to 5th grader Amanda Meyering for writing one of the five winning essays for the Florida Society of Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery (FSDDS). With almost 4,000 eligible students in 34 counties across Florida,

Local Student Spending The Year In Spain New Tampa resident Schuyler Robinson (photo) will spend his senior year of high school studying in Zaragoza, Spain, as part of the School Year Abroad program. During his stay, Robinson, 18, will study with approximately 60 other students in an academically rigorous high school and second-language immersion program while living with a Spanish host family. Robinson, who attends Tampa

Preparatory School, says he has always been fascinated by reading about and exploring foreign cultures. In Spain, most of his classes, with the exception of English and AP Calculus, will be taught in Spanish, but he feels that he’s ready, having taken four years of Spanish language classes and having spent past summers on community service projects in Peru and Ecuador. When he completes high school, Robinson, who is the son of Lary and Susannah Robinson, says he plans to major in international relations and history. — MS

each eligible school submitted one essay entry. Amanda’s essay was not only one of the 99 final entries selected, but also among the five chosen as winners (she won the award for the West region). The FSDDS donated all materials and costs to shade our primary playground. In addition, the Clark PTA worked hard during the last school year and was able to donate $8,500 to help cover the cost to shade the secondary playground. With Florida being the “Sunshine State,” all Clark students in grades K-5 will benefit from the new shade structures.

Fundraising) will be the source for this season’s Clark PTA catalogue sales drive. Two catalogues provide a wide range of high-quality items. The Gift catalogue includes wrapping paper, ribbons, holiday gift items, a “go green” section and more. The Kitchen & Home catalogue will include kitchen gadgets, gardening items, personalized photo gifts, collegiate items, chocolates and more. A whopping 4050 pecent (depending upon the item) of all sales will go directly to the Clark PTA to help fund valuable PTA-funded school programs. The Clark PTA Fall Fund Raiser runs through September 29.

PTA Fall Fund Raiser

Charleston Wraps (owned by A+

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

N EW T AMPA

Sports Briefs

Freedom Opens 1-0, Wharton At 1-1 By Gary Nager The Freedom High Patriots and Wharton High Wildcats both entered the 2009 football season with high expectations, but plenty of question marks. Two weeks into the season, a few of those questions have been answered, as the Pats have opened the season under new coach James Harrell 1-0 (their second game against King was rained out and cancelled) and the ‘Cats rebounded from a stunning 28-0 opening loss to Spoto with a 27-13 win over always-tough Chamberlain. Although one win does not a season make, Freedom’s new starting QB Tyler Guy threw for 215 yards and 4 TDs in the 49-19 opening shellacking of Riverview. RB Anthony Delisca added 99 yards on the ground and 2 scores and WR T.J. Mutcherson led a balanced receiving corps with 119 yards, including a 47-yard TD from Guy. We didn’t attend that game, but do plan to attend one or more of the Pats’ home games prior to the annual showdown at Wharton October 23. Meanwhile, the ‘Cats were stung by mistakes and a stronger-than-expected Spoto team in their 28-0 opening loss at home. No statistics were avilable for that game, but it’s probably just as well. Wharton rebounded nicely the following week, as they took it to Chamberlain on the Chiefs’ home field. Junior QB Ryan Hatter, who didn’t start the opener, and RB Shane McEwen, who was injured and sat out the first game, helped spark the ‘Cats early and often. Hatter finished with 82 yards passing and 2 rushing TDs and McEwen rolled to 123 yards on the ground and 1 score. By the time you receive this issue, both the ‘Cats and Pats will have played their Week 3 game, but we will provide an update on both teams next issue.

QB Tanner Stocker (#9) and the rest of the Wharton Wildcats had a tough opening game against Spoto. The ‘Cats rebounded with a 27-13 win over Chamberlain the following week.

Although head coach Frank Barone’s players knew they were playing for second place after splitting their first two games at the World Series, the Titans rallied from a 13-4 early deficit against Chesterfield, VA, to win by the 10-run rule, 26-15. Carson Ragsdale started the rally with a HR and Isaiah McIntyre, Conor Grady and Vincent Jackson each also hit dingers, The Tampa Titans age 9-10 “Mustang League” team made it with Jackson’s HR all the way to the worldwide Final Four in their age group. looking like something out of “The Jacob Rodriguez and Jeremy Moser Natural” as it clanged off of the scoreand awesome pitching by Jeremy board. Key defensive plays by Drew Oppenhiemer helped secure the final Ehrhard, Will McGillis, Greg Barone, game win.

Titans Nearly ‘Pony Up’

It was a long road to the “Mustrang League” division of the Pony League World Series for the Tampa Titans age 9-10 team. The Titans, who move up to the 11-year-old age group this season, are both a Temple Terrace Pony League (competitor of Little League) squad, as well as an AAU (“travel”) team that has been playing together for two years and features numerous players from New Tampa and Wesley Chapel. In June, the Titans beat Town & Country to advance to the Regionals in Winston, GA, in late July and won there and at the week-long Zone Tournament in Cleburne, TX. That made the Titans one of four teams (of more than 2,000 worldwide) to advance to the World Series last month, where they placed third. Assistant coach Scott Ragsdale says the real story was the fact that the team raised almost $10,000 in in just a few weekends of passing the hat at local Publix supermarkets to pay for the trips to Georgia and Texas.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Deven Rabeiro Named Kids Tour Player Of The Year Golf fans may want to take note of the name Deven Rabeiro, because the 9-year-old New Tampa resident may be well on his way to becoming the next Tiger Woods. Rabeiro, who is now in the fourth grade at Pride Elementary, started showing interest in the sport when he was only 3 years old, according to his dad, Orlando, who is the assistant golf pro at Stonegate Golf Club in Poinciana. The Rabeiros live in the Easton Park subdivision on Morris Bridge Rd. “He started picking up my putter and mimicking what I was doing, so we went and got him some plastic clubs,” says Orlando, who calls Deven “my little Tiger.” Deven quickly advanced to real kid-sized golf clubs, however, and started accompanying his father to work to practice on the Stonegate course. He loves to play golf, Orlando says, and practices up to six hours at a time. (He also enjoys soccer, but gave up Little League after telling his coach that swinging a baseball bat was ruining his golf swing). Over the course of his young career, Deven has earned a total of 43

top-three finish trophies and 35 topthree medals, but his best season so far was this year. Deven has won seven of the eight Deven Rabeiro, 9, is tournaments already a golf champion. on the U.S. Kids Golf Tampa summer tour and was named Player of the Year in his age group. He also earned an invitation to the U.S. Kids Golf World Championship, which was held in Pinehurst, NC, in August. There, he finished 93rd in a field of 167 competitors from around the world. “It was a little intimidating for him, but it was a great learning experience, too,” Orlando says. Deven plans to continue competing, of course, and has already garnered interest from the Wharton High golf team, Orlando says, but, he has to wait until he’s in seventh grade before he becomes eligible to officially try out for the high school team.— MS

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Gymnast Sarah Wolford Earns Full Ride To University Of Iowa

Congratulations go out to Sarah Wolford, a 16-year-old junior at Freedom High in Tampa Palms, who recently accepted a full gymnastics scholarship to attend the University of Iowa in Ames. Wolford, the daughter of Brice and Terry Wolford of Tampa Palms, has been participating in gymnastics since she was three years old and currently competes with the Tampa Bay Turners program in Pinellas County under coach Brad Harris. She is a Level 10 gymnast, which makes her one of the best all-around gymnasts in the state, and last year she was the Florida State champion on the uneven bars in her division. Before that, Sarah finished second in the state when she was a Level 7, and won all-around state and regional championships at Level 8. Terry Wolford says that when Sarah was little, she used to amaze the family with her “crazy” splits and summersaults, even before she had any training. “We thought to ourselves, ‘she looks like she has a lot of flexibility, maybe we should get her into gymnastics,’” she says. That turned out to be a good move, obviously, because Harris says

that it’s very rare for a high school gymnast to be recruited by a wellrespected Division 1 program like Iowa more than a year before her graduation. “It’s pretty remarkable, really,” Harris says. “But, Sarah is very Sarah Wolford talented, and she has the grit and determination that it takes to succeed, and I think Iowa will be a very good match for her, both athletically and academically.” Meanwhile, Sarah, who wants to major in business and possibly run a gymnastics facility of her own someday, seems to be taking it all in stride. She and the family traveled 3,500 miles around the country this summer, looking at schools and meeting coaches, and she picked Iowa after turning down an offer from Illinois State University in Normal, IL. — MS

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Live Oak - 4+loft/3.5/3, 3425 SF, formal living & dining. Granite, wood floors, 42” cabinets, 27 x 10 screened lanai, water views on front, side, and back. $399,000

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T’S Boutique — A Gift Shop & A Gathering Place For Good Friends By Melissa O’Brien When you enter T’s Boutique in the separate plaza in front of The Grove in Wesley Chapel (off I-75 at S.R. 54), you’ll immediately spot at least ten special gift items for friends and family on your birthday or holiday list. From sweet-smelling candles to flirty earrings and dresses, bejeweled key finders and trendy picture frames, T’s Boutique makes shopping for that unique item a whole lot of fun. In addition, owner Theresa Loftin will even be happy to open the boutique’s inviting 1,200-sq. ft. space to

Need some accessories to match your new outfit? T’s Boutique can hook you up!

host birthday parties, bridal or baby showers, Bible studies or Bunko games — any kind of get-together that would be suited for a fun, cozy environment like T’s Boutique. Located across the parking lot from TJ Maxx in The Grove, T’s Boutique opened late last year in the separate plaza in front of The Grove, which Theresa says was the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. “I was a teacher in Hillsborough and Pasco counties for 30 years,” she says. “After I retired and my son stopped playing baseball in college (at nearby Pasco Hernando Community College), I was ready to start on my own dream. While I was teaching, I worked part time at a boutique. I wanted my own business where I could recreate the atmosphere of Southern charm I found in stores I grew up with in Greenville, Mississippi. I wanted to create a place where people could relax when shopping and get to know the store owner on a one-on-one basis.” That dream was the creation of a boutique that, according to Theresa, was designed to, “Feel like home. I had hardwood floors put in and warm colors on the walls and then brought in my own wood furniture and antiques for displays. I treat the boutique like it is my home and for me, it is all about the customer service. If I don’t have it, I will do my best to find it for you. I want you to come in here and enjoy yourself.” T’s Boutique is filled with great

Owner Theresa Loftin and her employee Heather can help you find a dress in your favorite team’s colors at T’s Boutique in The Grove at Wesley Chapel. gifts and one-of-a-kind items. For the sports fan, T’s carries dresses and tunics by Tracy Negoshian, Inc., a Dade City designer and University of South Florida graduate who creates flattering and fun dresses and jewelry in color schemes to match your favorite sports teams. Although the dresses don’t carry the team logos, Negoshian’s designs will match the colors of the Gators, Bucs, Magic, etc. And, speaking of “sporty” items, the boutique also carries Diane Dal Lago T-Shirts with crystal sports logos from the universities of Georgia, Florida, South Florida and Florida State. If your favorite team logo is not available at the store, Theresa is more than willing to order it for you. The boutique also carries Green Label Designs, which makes skirts with sashes, bloomers with tank tops and

tunic dresses. Men can find Tommy Bahama apparel for themselves or a special designer Vera Bradley or Spartina bag (colorful, fun bags and/or purses for the beach or everyday wear) for their wives or significant others. Theresa also made sure she included gifts of all shapes and sizes and price ranges, although she says that most gifts in the store cost less than $100. “It’s all about fashion affordability,” says the Lexington Oaks resident. For those looking for fun Bunko gifts or a gift for a bridal shower, T’s has a wide variety of picture frames by Enesco, including “Our Name is Mud” mugs, bejeweled Alexa key finders and purse hangers and Lolita glass gifts. What may be more even fun than shopping in T’s Boutique is having a See “T’s Boutique” on page 30

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“T’s Boutique”

the store up after hours for parties and events,” says Theresa. “People have had (bridal) showers, Bible studies and Continued from page 1 birthday parties here. I had one bridal party or event there after the store clos- shower here where pink was the bride’s theme. I served chicken Cesar salad es. Theresa offers special discounts on with pink cupcakes from Publix and the purchases to customers who purchase girls worked on creating pink scrapitems at an event. “Because I wanted T’s Boutique to books for an hour and a half. For little girls, we’ve had birthday parties where be an extension of my home, I open we teach them about the Vera Bradley patterns, give them a gift to play with, paint their fingernails and serve cake and refreshments. Both the girls and their mothers really seem to love it!” Claudia Madani, a friend of Theresa’s and a frequent shopper at T’s Boutique, says she just loves visiting the shop. “Theresa is so enthusiastic about the store and she passes on that enthusiasm to you,” says Madani, who lives in Dade City. “It makes you love being in the store as much as she does. And, she is very open to requests – if she doesn’t have an item, she will work hard to find it for you. She is such a hard worker and it is so great to see her dreams coming true.” Madani also raves about the merchandise at T’s. “She carries great lines of clothing. I really like the ‘Not Your Daughter’s You simply have to visit T’s Boutique to Jeans’ and the Tracy Negoshian dressunderstand what makes it unique! es. I bought my daughter one of the

dresses to wear to a Gator game. They come in all different patterns in different team colors and make great gift ideas.” Cristie Bertrand, who lives in Wesley Chapel’s Oak Creek, says that Theresa is very customer-oriented and always strives to make her store and its activities fun. “I helped her at one of her Vera Bradley parties,” says Bertrand, who also is also a friend of Theresa’s. “I helped with finger painting and balloon games – the little girls had a ball! I also have attended a Bible study in her store and find it a very nice, cozy place to connect with friends. The assortment of

candles and diffusers she sells in the store make it smell nice and it is a great place to browse after our meeting.” Bertrand says she has purchased candles, stationery and other special gifts from T’s Boutique. “When you walk in, the store just has a nice vibe,” says Bertrand. “I love the heart of the store — it is the heart of Theresa. She is truly a good person and always will help out someone in any way she can.” T’s Boutique is located at 6027 Wesley Grove Blvd., #101. Store hours are Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.- 7.m., and noon- 5 p.m. on Sunday. It is closed Mondays. For more information, call 973-4405.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

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Hall Of Famer Signs At ABC By Gary Nager Although I’m currently a Tampa Bay Rays fan, I have reported many times that I also have been a fan of the San Francisco Giants since I was about 7 years old. In the late 1960s, the Giants finished second a bunch of times, including in 1969, when Hall of Fame first baseman Willie McCovey (who shares a birthday with yours truly) was named the National League MVP. The Giants only made it to the playoffs one time in the ‘70s, and many of those years, they were looking up at the Cincinnati Reds, aka “The Big Red Machine,” who made it to the postseason six times that decade and won back-to-back World Series titles in 1975-76. As a huge baseball fan whose team wasn’t winning, it was easy for me to pick up the Reds as my second favorite team (even though they played in the same National League West as my beloved Giants, despite the fact the “Redlegs” were based in Ohio). Cincy was led by Hall of Famers Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, Pete Rose (who’s never made it to the Hall, despite being the game’s all-time hits leader, because he bet on baseball when he was still in the game as a manager)

and the team’s most recent inductee, first baseman Tony Perez. Perez, who recently visited the ABC Fine Wine & Spirits store on Bruce B, Downs Blvd. in Wesley Chapel to sign autographs during an outstanding wine tasting event, was a line-drive RBI (runs batted in) machine during his career. Although not as big a home run threat as my beloved “Big Mac,” Perez hit most of his 379 career HRs and drove in the bulk of his 1,652 RBIs in his 16 years with Cincy in an incredible 23-year MLB career. With his plane arriving late and rush-hour traffic causing him to be almost two hours late for the signing, the crowd wasn’t as big to meet Perez as I had expected. But, most of those who did show for the event (including our office manager Julie Rinaldi, who is from Indiana, but rooted for the Reds) were big Cincy and/or Perez fans who were happy to wait a few minutes to take a pic with the seven-time All-Star, get some baseball memorabilia signed and talk a little “old school” baseball. Even those of us who rooted for another team. ABC Fine Wine & Spirits is located at 1845 BBD Blvd., next to CVS and across from Publix. Call 907-2647 and tell ‘em we sent you!

Baseball Hall of Famer Tony Perez (left) recently signed autographs for two hours at the ABC Fine Wine & Spirits store on Bruce B. Downs Blvd. in Wesley Chapel.

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This Month Brings Plenty Of Great Concerts To The Bay Area School is back in session, which means that summer is officially over, but there are still plenty of great concerts coming to our area over the next month or so. Here are a few highlights:

Sugarland

Friday, September 25 – Sugarland, the country music duo made up of Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush, is one of the hottest acts in America right now. Bush, formerly of Billy Pilgrim, started the group in 2003 with another singer/songwriter, Kristen Hall, and after Nettles joined up as lead singer, the trio was signed to Mercury Nashville Records to record their debut album, “Twice the Speed of Life,” which featured the single “Baby Girl” and eventually went platinum. But, even though Hall left (or was forced out of) the group in 2006, that didn’t affect sales of Sugarland’s next album, “Enjoy the Ride,” which produced the group’s first two No. 1 hits, “Want To” and “Settlin’.” This year, Sugarland was named Top Vocal Duo by the Academy of Country Music and also won a Grammy Award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals for the song “Stay,” which also won the Grammy for Best Country Song.

Sugarland will perform at 7:30 p.m. at the St. Pete Times Forum (401 Channelside Dr., downtown Tampa). Tickets cost $25-$45 and are available at the Forum ticket office, online at tbpac.org, or through Ticketmaster (287-8844). For more info, call 301-2500.

Rob Thomas, OneRepublic & Carolina Liar

Sunday, September 27 – Although former Army brat Rob Thomas is better known as the lead singer of the multi-platinum-selling altrock band Matchbox Twenty, he’s also had a pretty successful solo career apart from the group, starting in 1999, when he co-wrote and sang the lead vocals on the song “Smooth” for Carlos Santana’s “Supernatural” album. That song earned three Grammy awards, including “Song of the Year,” and helped showcase Thomas’ outstanding vocal ability. He released his first solo album, “Something To Be,” in 2005, which peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard magazine charts and was certified platinum, and followed that with his second solo effort, “Cradlesong,” which was released on June 30. Rob Thomas, along with guests OneRepublic (“Apologize”) and

Carolina Liar (“Show Me What I’m Looking For”) will perform at Ruth Eckerd Hall (1111 N. McMullenBooth Rd. in Clearwater) at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $51.50-$91.50 and are available at the Ruth Eckerd Hall ticket office, at rutheckerdhall.com, or Ticketmaster (287-8844). Or, call (727) 791-7400.

Blink 182, Fall Out Boy & All American Rejects

Sunday, September 27 – Fans of modern punk music got a big surprise at this year’s Grammy Awards ceremony, when Mark Delonge, Travis Barker and Mark Hoppus, the three members of Blink 182, announced that they would be getting back together for a new record and tour. The appearance at the Grammys was the first time the three band members had been together on a stage since they announced that they were going on “indefinite hiatus” amid growing tensions in 2004. Although the record has yet to materialize, apart from one new single, “Up All Night,” the tour has already garnered some good reviews since it kicked off in July with various supporting groups joining the band at different venues. For the Tampa show, Blink 182, which has had multi-platinum suc-

cess with songs like “What’s My Age Again?” and “All The Small Things,” will be joined by Fall Out Boy (“This Ain’t A Scene, It’s An Arms Race”), All American Rejects (“Swing, Swing’) and Asher Roth (“I Love College”). Blink 182, Fall Out Boy, All American Rejects and Asher Roth will perform at 6:30 p.m. at the Ford Amphitheatre (4802 U.S. 301 N., at the Florida State Fairgrounds). Tickets cost $20-$63 and are available at the Amphitheatre box office, online at livenation.com and through Ticketmaster (287-8844). For more info, call 740-2446.

Alice Cooper

Friday, October 2 – Although musicians like Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie and others are now known for shocking audiences with their music and gruesome concert spectacles, they all owe a debt of gratitude to the original shock rocker, Alice Cooper (nee Vincent Furnier), who basically invented the horror/rock genre with stage shows that at times have included guillotines, demons, dead babies and other horrific imagery. Most of Cooper’s commercial and chart success came in the 1970s, with classic albums like “Billion Dollar Babies,” “School’s Out” and “Welcome

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Metallica will rock the St. Pete Times Forum on October 3. To My Nightmare,” but he continues to enjoy a loyal following and is named by many modern artists as a major influence. His most recent release, 2008’s “Along Came A Spider,” was his 25th studio album and his highest charting effort since 1991’s “Hey Stoopid,” reaching #53 on the U.S. Billboard charts and #31 in the U.K. Alice Cooper brings his “Theatre of Death Tour ‘09” to Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $35-$65 and are available at the Ruth Eckerd ticket office, at rutheckerdhall.com, or call Ticketmaster (287-8844) or (727) 791-7400.

Metallica’s ‘World Magnetic Tour’

Saturday, October 3 – Since its formation in Los Angeles in 1981, Metallica has become the most success-

ful heavy metal band of all time, with more than 100 million record sales worldwide, not to mention nine Grammy Awards and legions of loyal fans around the world. The band has seen the downside of success as well, with various members battling addiction and each other, and mixed reviews of some of their more recent albums, including 2003’s “St. Anger,” which angered many fans but also received a Best Metal Performance Grammy in 2004 for the title track. Now, the band is back, with a new record, “Death Magnetic,” which was released last year and debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard charts not only here in the U.S., but also in Australia, Europe and Canada. Check out Metallica’s “World Magnetic Tour”at the St. Pete Times Forum at 7 p.m. Tickets cost $52.25 and $72.25 and are available at the Forum ticket office, at sptimesforum. com and Ticketmaster (287-8844). Or, call 301-2500.

The Black Crowes, With Truth & Salvage Company

their loose, bluesy style of rock. That album went on to achieve multi-platinum status, on the strength of hits like “She Talks To Angels,” “Hard To Handle” and others, and paved the way for a string of hit records that followed. The band’s lineup has changed over the years, but the heart of the group remains in brothers Chris and Rich Robinson, and their latest record, a two-disc set entitled “Before the Frost…Until the Freeze,” was released last year. It features their newest member, guitarist Luther Dickinson, formerly of the North Mississippi All Stars. The Black Crowes, along with special guest Truth & Salvage Co., will perform at Ruth Eckerd Hall beginning at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $40.50 and $68 and are available at the Ruth Eckerd ticket office, at rutheckerdhall.com, or Ticketmaster (287-8844). For more information, call (727) 791-7400.

Australian Pink Floyd Show Friday, October 9 – There has

been no word about a tour of the real Pink Floyd since keyboardist Richard Wright’s death in September 2008, but according to all accounts, the Australian Pink Floyd Show may be the next best thing to the real thing. TAPFS, as they are known, not only perform all of Pink Floyd’s music, but they also incorporate many aspects of the rock supergroup’s performances into their own show, including the laser lights, inflatable props, and even their own version of Floyd’s massive “Mr. Screen” circular video panel. They are the only Pink Floyd tribute band endorsed by the real band members, and they even performed at Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmore’s 50th birthday party in 1996. The Australian Pink Floyd Show will perform at Ruth Eckerd Hall at 8 p.m. Tickets cost $50.50 and $68 and are available at the Ruth Eckerd Hall ticket office, at rutheckerdhall. com, and Ticketmaster (287-8844). Or, call (727) 791-7400.

Wednesday, October 7 – When they emerged from the Atlanta music scene in 1990 with their debut album, “Shake Your Money Maker,” the Black Crowes drew comparisons to the Rolling Stones, the Grateful Dead, Aerosmith and other classic bands for

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For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Kennedy BBQ Now Serving At The Heritage Isles CC Café By Gary Nager If you love great barbecue, you’ve probably already discovered the awesome smoker stand in front of the Shell station at the corner of Cross Creek Blvd. and Morris Bridge Rd. operated by Ernest Kennedy Jr. and and his dad, Ernest Sr. If so, you may have heard that the father-and-son team recently opened a much more impressive restaurant at the open-to-the-public café located inside the semi-private Heritage Isles Golf & Country Club. I say more impressive because while an outdoor smoker and BBQ stand featuring great chicken and ribs is the kind of comfort food many people crave, the new Kennedy Barbeque at Heritage Isles is an actual restaurant with great prices on delicious food in a casual, comfortable setting. It’s so good, in fact, that I believe the two Ernests are going to make everyone forget the previous failures at this location. No, the original café inside Heritage Isles wasn’t bad, but it still bombed. And, although the menu definitely got an upgrade when Saddlebrook Resort Tampa in Wesley Chapel took over the management of the Heritage Isles Café, so did its pricing. I believe, however, that the Kennedys

have found the right mix of the right type of menu at the right price for the club, the Heritage Isles community and the entire New Tampa community. Of course, Kennedy Barbeque features quality smoked chicken, pork (but not baby back) ribs and pulled pork, but it also offers everything from a tender ribeye steak topped with crispy fried onions (served with garlic smashed potatoes and fresh veggies) for just $14.95 to great breakfast and lunch specials. Even the hours — open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day — are perfect for golfers and busy Cross Creek Blvd. commuters on the go. There’s even live jazz on Friday nights, starting at 9 p.m. “I couldn’t believe that the golf club opened so early, but those hungry and thirsty golfers couldn’t get even a sandwich for lunch at times,” says Ernest Jr. “We plan to provide not only a service for the golfers, but also a comfortable, family-style restaurant for the entire community.” All I can tell you is that it works. The homemade sauce Ernest Jr. created for the BBQ ribs and chicken is both delicious and unique, the homemade cole slaw is outstanding and although the baked beans are a little sweeter than I usually like, all of the food at Kennedy BBQ is high-quality, fresh and priced

If you love barbecued chicken and ribs, you’ll find the good stuff at the new Kennedy Barbeque at Heritage Isles Golf & Country Club off Cross Creek Blvd. right. In other words, if you haven’t been there yet, you owe it to yourself to find out what several Tampa Bay Bucs players already know — Kennedy Barbeque is the real deal, as well as a great deal! Kennedy Barbeque at Heritage Isles Golf & Country Club also serves ice cold beer, has a full liquor bar and offers great catering, too. For more info, call 406-4941.

This awesome ribeye steak dinner is just $14.95 at the new Kennedy Barbeque.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

At Kennedy Barbeque, two Ernest Kennedys are better than one. And their place is really great, so go check it out.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

Our Dining Survey & Contest has a whole new format — simply tell us your ten favorite restaurants in New Tampa, your 10 favorites in Wesley Chapel and your ten favorites in the entire Tampa Bay area (you can even include your favorite coffee houses, sandwich and smoothie shops, etc.). The bottom line is still the same — all entries have a chance to win one of at least ten $20 (minimum; it could be more!) gift certificates to a local dining establishment AND an equal chance to win a $100 gift certificate to the restaurant of your choice in the Tampa Bay area! If your name is selected at random to be our Grand Prize winner, we’ll give you $100 to the restaurant you select as your “#1 Favorite in Tampa Bay!” Enter by fax, U.S. mail or e-mail (don’t forget to include ALL of your personal information — name, address, community you live in, zip code & daytime telephone number — on all e-mailed entries) or enter at our website (NTNeighborhoodNews.com) by Friday, October 30, 2009, to be eligible! — GN

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com

NEW TAMPA & WESLEY CHAPEL H E L P

W A N T E D

Join OrthoTechnology’s Winning Team! Ortho Technology, an international orthodontic supply distributor located in New Tampa, is seeking talented energetic candidates for the following full-time positions: Inside Sales: Skilled salespeople for established territories! Proven track record of success in B2B phone sales, exc. communication & computer skills req’d QC Inspector: Entry level position responsible for accuracy of outgoing orders. 1-2 yrs exp w/QC responsibilities. Ability to stand/walk for entire shift, close vision, basic color differentiation and basic math req’d. Small parts/med device experience a plus. We provide a great work environment, excellent benefits package and growth potential. Submit resumes to careers@orthotechnology.com.

Classifıeds

Quality Handyman, specializing in Home Improvements, repairs & installations of all types from A to Z, including telephone & computer cabling. 18 years of exp. No job too small. E-mail eddieperdomo@yahoo.com or call 451-6541 for questions or Free Estimates. Greg’s Paperhanging. For all of your wallpapering needs. Licensed & insured, clean, quick & reasonable. Call 973-2767 for free estimate. RAYMOND PAINTING. Interior & exterior, pressure washing, paper hanging, plaster, stucco, tiles, concrete, clean & seal pavers. Licensed & Bonded. References available. Free estimates. YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD ARBOR GREENE RESIDENT. We Work 7 Days. Call 994-5124. Dan Turner Decorating Wallcovering Installation. The most important thing about the wallcovering you select is...the installer. Don’t sacrifice the beauty of wallcovering, turn to the experts. Call today for a free consultation. Licensed & insured. Call 928-2160

L A N D S C A P I N G

Professional Tech Support in your home or small business. A+ certified computer tech with 15 years of exp. Maintenance & repairs, upgrades & tutoring. More affordable than the large chains! Friendly, personalized svc. Technical jargon explained in plain English. References available upon request. Call 957-8342 for free estimate.

HOME

IMPROVEMENT

Need home maintenance? Almost any job, large or small, ext/int, fencing, screening, sm. concrete, sprinklers, painting, repairs, int. doors, locks, sheet rock, windows, paint, caulk, grout, trim, shelving, garages organized. Installations, removals, pressure washing, wood restoration & more. Call Dale’s Home Maintenance @ 9730194 or 727-2582.

Tranquility Pool Service. New Tampa Owned & Operated! Great pricing w/outstanding customer service. Relax & enjoy while we keep your pool in pristine swimming condition! Licensed, Bonded & Insured. Call Chris today for a free quote @ 857-5400 or visit us at www.tranquilitypoolservice.com to see why we are New Tampa’s #1 choice! Aquatec Pool Service has been keeping pools clear & swim safe since 1994. We offer quality WEEKLY full service at an affordable price & follow strict National Swimming Pool Foundation (NSPF) standards. Licensed & insured. Call 780-8616 or visit our website www.aquatecpool.com to see why you should choose us! Mention this ad and get one month FREE.

Animals’ Best Friend says, “Pets Deserve Good Love & Care, Even Times When You’re Not There!” In-your-home pet-sitting svcs, including dog walks, multiple & overnight visits, administering meds, plus love & attention. Licensed, bonded & insured. Call 765-5515 for a free consultation. Or, visit www.animalsbestfriend.net.

A+ Cleaning Service. FSU grad, honest & dependable. Moving very successful business to Tampa Palms area to be near first grandchild. My Tallahassee clients included FSU coaches & professors. For FREE estimate & references call Randi at (cell) 850-509-6615. Yes, I do Gators, too!

COMPUTER SERVICES

S E R V I C E S

HERE I COME! I specialize in all types of cleaning: houses, apartments, townhouses, garages, etc. Best prices in the Bay area. References available. Call for a free estimate. Call 735-7979.

LEBOM Cleaning service. Are you tired of cleaning? Call us & let us do the dirty job for you. Residential & Commercial. Move in/Move out. 6 years working for the best. Good references. Great prices. Licensed! Call 325-7904 now for free estimate.

Childcare Dir & PreK3-Lev2 VPK CDA. Benefits, est. 14yrs 813-991-5499, www.backyardbears.com Wesley Chapel.

P O O L

P E T

Isn’t life busy enough? Save time. We can help. Your satisfaction is our first priority. Guaranteed, affordable, reliable, quality domestic svcs. Free estimate: Chelsea Maid Company @ 994-6662.

P/T Medical Asst. for doctor’s office in New Tampa. With experience. Good salary & benefits. Fax resume to 632-7114 or call 632-7111.

estimates. Competitive prices. Se habla espanol. Call 994-9685.

CLEANING SERVICES

D-ULTRA CLEANING SERVICE. We have our own supplies & more than 200 clients in New Tampa! For more information, call 758-9710.

P/T Massage therapist. Please send résumé to PO Box 47254 Tampa, FL 33647 or fax to 994-3080.

These are the Color Classifieds Your Neighbors R E A D! Call Julie Rinaldi @ 910-2575 to order your ad today!

Everyday Gardener’s Club. Full-service property maintenance available for residential & commercial. One-stop shopping with licensed, insured professionals. Specializing in landscape design with conceptional drawings & renderings available. Let your imagination & our professionals come together to create dreams that will last a lifetime. Call 933-1120 or visit www.EverydayGardnersClub.com Complete Sod Services. Start to finish sod services including tear out and disposal, treatment for fungus & bugs. Sod of all varieties. Professional services, competitive pricing. Call 545-2205.

LAWN MAINTENANCE NTLC Property Maintenance. Residential & Commercial lawn maintenance for New Tampa & Wesley Chapel. Sprinkler repair, tree trimming, mulching, landscaping & clean-ups also available. Licensed & Insured. Call Bill @ 973-3825. Enjoy your time & let A.T.B. Landscaping & Lawn Service do the work for you. We provide landscaping, lawn maintenance, clean-ups, tree & hedge trimming, sodding, sprinkler repair & fertilization. Other services also available. 907-LAWN Lawn maintenance * commercial & residential * rentals * HOA clean ups * investment properties * complete lawn care at prices you can afford! Service that you can depend on. Call Ken 334-3460. Falcon Lawn Service. Full service property maintenance available. Residential & Commercial. Free

S I T T I N G

Professional Pet Care Exp’d. pet sitters. We walk, play, feed & administer medicine, all in the comfort of your pet’s home. We also bring in mail, water plants & help maintain home security while you’re away. Bonded, insured & trained in Pet First-Aid & CPR. Call For The Love Of Pets at 545-8406 or 416-3126. Or visit www.ForTheLoveOfPetsOnLine.com. Tampa Cat Lady Professional Cat-Sitting Service. You say goodbye - we say hello. Cats are happiest when in their own home, surrounded by familiar sights, sounds & smells. When you are away, we feed, cuddle & play with your kitties & clean & dispose of litter. We help deter crime by bringing newspaper/mail & rotating lights/blinds, giving your home that lived-in look. Licensed, bonded & Red-Cross certified in pet first aid/CPR. Call 994-9449 or visit www.TampaCatLady.com. New Tampa Pet Sitting Service. Lots of love & care for your pets. Great experience & references. Recommended by Angie’s List. Licensed, Insured & Red Cross Certified. Call Marina @ 416-5301.

S E R V I C E S AVA I L A B L E THE GAS DOCTOR. 24-HOUR EMERGENCY SERVICE. Residential * Commercial * Industrial. * New Construction & Remodels * Natural & LP Gas Piping Systems. Gas Appliance Installation, Service & Repair. Providing connections for: Gas Lights, Ranges, Dryers, Fireplaces, Furnaces, Generators, Grills, Space Heaters, Water Heaters, Pool Heaters, Firepits & Tankless Water Heaters. TECO Rebates on Natural Gas Appliances. 5162927 or thegasdoctor.com. License # MG 24668

Trash removal. Trash clean-up, garage cleanouts. Will haul furniture, appliances, yard debris, lowest rates guaranteed; starting at $40. Call 285-4674.

R E A L

E S T A T E

ATTENTION ALL REALTORS! The Real Estate "POWER TEAM" has moved to RemaxFirst in Real Estate. Now hiring new team members. Please call Regina Ramalheira at 813245-8893. New Office/ great Bruce B Downs location in front of Live Oak.

Town Home for rent in Meadow Pointe, gated 1 car garage, 3br, 2.5 bath, loft—Maint. Free. $1250/mo. Please call 541-3158.

M U S I C

L E S S O N S

FREE GUITAR WITH LESSONS! Don't worry about spending money on an instrument if you or your child doesn’t stick with it. Get a new guitar free when you sign up for 3 months of lessons. Offer good while supplies last. For more information visit Bigel Music, 20435 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, FL 813-907-6363. Piano lessons in the convenience of your own home. USF student with infinite patience now accepting new piano students. Specializing in teaching performance skills & music theory to young children & beginners of all ages. References. Tampa Palms area. Call Charlie @ 625-1353.

Home day care in a loving home. 10 years experience. We encourage social development activities, games, play times & more. Infant & up. CPR & first aid. Reg. R23PA0154. Call Hilda @ 388-9148. Babysitter is available for Sat., Sun. sitting. Call 973-1216.

B U Y I N G

G O L D

NEED EXTRA MONEY…We can turn your unwanted, old or broken gold jewelry into CASH! Take advantage of high gold prices which may not last long. Don’t sell to the fly by night companies. Take it to Tampa Palms Hometown Jeweler. Jeweler on staff w/ 35 yrs. exp. Charles Jewelers, 9724653 (next to Stein Mart on Bruce B. Downs).

M O V I N G

S A L E

Tread mill (brand new), single bed w/drawers, lawn equipment & lots more. September 26th, 7am-12pm. Misty Creek off of Cross Creek Blvd. across from Benito Middle School.

Beautiful outdoors! Construction superintendent at your service! Landscape design, clean-up & mulching, repairs for roofs, screening, sprinklers, drywall & shelving. Garage clean out, help with moving, packing & storage. Pressure washing, painting inside & out. Professional service at bargain prices! Call Dennis 601-4560. Clean-outs—abandoned homes, garage cleaning. Pressure washing; odd jobs—painting, tile work, etc. Contact Sure Window Cleaning 926-9943. Graphic Electric, Inc. Electrical contractor available. Service upgrades, room additions, remodels, pool equipment, ceiling fans, low voltage lighting, etc. Any electrical worked needed. Licensed insured & bonded. Call 532-9160. All major credit cards accepted.

For Advertising Information Call 813-910-2575 • Volume 17, Issue 19 • September 18, 2009 • www.NTNeighborhoodNews.com